[Buddha-l] Another Unitarian perspective on Buddhism

[Hal Cooper]

RPH> But what I did find interesting was that she said things I have
> never heard in any American Buddhist setting during the past thirty-five
> years. And I do sort of wonder why. Why do I have to go to a Unitarian
> church to hear an excellent Dharma talk about our collective social
> obligations to alleviate poverty?
>
Instead of giving to the poor, some Buddhists ask for offerings.

To create future merit for the impoverished, Arahant Maha Kassapa would
often patronize the poor.  King Sakka even disguised himself as a poor
person so he could make an offering to Maha Kassapa.  The Buddha scolded
King Sakka.

One time a leper was making an offering and part of his finger fell off in
the bowl.  Arahant Maha Kassapa gladly accepted the mans' offering.  The
leper was joyful.